Consider how and where you’ll use your keyboard.

How Do I Choose a Keyboard Switch?

These switches come in various styles in mechanical keyboards, which all feel and work differently.

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Buy a switch sampler to get a feel for the different switches available.

To choose the right keyboard switches, think about how you want to use the keyboard.

If you do some gaming and use your machine to pop in, tactile switches provide a good balance.

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Key travel and actuation point are the last two factors to consider.

Want clicky keys it’s possible for you to bang out on silently when you want?

Choose a tactile switch that will only click after the actuation point.

A mechanical keyboard switch tester.

For example, you could get a clicky optical or linear speed switch.

it’s possible for you to also find switches combining two or even all three characteristics.

For instance, some linear switches are built for speed, silence, and light-up.

Optical switches are purely for aesthetics and only work in keyboards designed explicitly for the keys to light up.

What Do the Different Color Switches Mean?

Key manufacturers use colors to differentiate between different types of switches.

For example, a Cherry MX Red is a switch made by Cherry with a red stem.

Other manufacturers use colors without additional terms, like the Kailh Gold.

What Is the Best Switch Color for a Mechanical Keyboard?

The best switch color for a mechanical keyboard depends on your use.

It also depends on the switches' manufacturer because some manufacturers use different color schemes.

Which Switches Are Best for a Mechanical Keyboard?

The best switches for a mechanical keyboard are purely personal preferences.

And it depends on how and where one will use the keyboard.

Tactile switches are the best if you like physical feedback when typing but dont want a loud click.

Theyre also suitable in office environments because they usually arent especially loud.

Theyre also good for gaming, so tactile switches are the best middle-ground option for most people.

Serious gamers should consider linear switches, as they provide faster, more precise inputs.

Clicky and even loud tactical keyboards dont offer the best gaming experience.

They give an excellent, satisfying click you dont get from the other switch styles.

Insert the new switches, and then replace your keycaps.

To clean mechanical keyboard switches, remove the keycaps.

(To make it easier to put them back, take a picture first.)

Spray compressed air into all the crevices, taking care to keep the nozzle away from the switches.